Noel Sullivan: “As a 19 year old, I was told to shut up about my sexuality. It ruined me.”

Singer and actor Noel Sullivan posts an incredibly moving tribute to the gay men that helped bring about the decriminalisation of homosexuality – and reveals he’s married!

There’s been a lot written and talked about the 50th anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality of late. But nothing has been as moving and effective as an Instagram post written by gorgeous actor and singer (and former GuysLikeU crush) Noel Sullivan.WATCH Hear’Say sing Bridge Over Troubled WaterThe one-time Hear’Say legend has penned a beautiful and touching note about how he has finally embraced his past, and thanks those gay men who came before for helping to achieve equal rights for gay men and women. But Noel also not only reveals that he’s been married to a rather handsome chap called James for six months (congrats boys), but that during his time in the short-lived but phenomenally successful Popstars band, he had been forced to remain in the closet, which led to subsequent years of depression and self abuse.“I can’t express my gratitude enough to those who sacrificed everything, to give us the freedom we enjoy,” he wrote.

“As a 19 year old, I was told to shut up about my sexuality. If I wanted a career, I had to be something else. Silent. It ruined me. No one was held accountable for the years of depression and self abuse that followed.

“It got to the point where I felt like I couldn’t speak out anymore because my time in the spotlight had passed and I assumed no one would care.

“It was a turbulent time but I took solace in my family and in theatre. Without the crazy, beautiful, supportive and talented people I worked with, lived with and performed for, I could never have found myself.

“After years of self doubt I finally feel free to say what I need to.

“Free to let go of the past, free to love myself. But most importantly, free to love.

“Thank you x”

Absolutely beautiful, right? The most perfect tribute we have seen or read.

Happy birthday Noel and we’re glad to see you that you have finally found your happy place.